Studies of Non-Ionizing Radiation-Related Cancer

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Case referent study of brain tumors - 04030 The etiology of brain tumors and brain cancer is poorly understood, and recorded incidence rates have increased dramatically over the past several decades. In response to these findings, and to advance understanding of environmental, behavioral and genetic causes of brain tumors, we conducted a case-control study of malignant and benign brain tumors (glioma, meningioma and acoustic neuroma). Excess risks of glioma were found among electricians and farmers, and an elevated risk of meningioma was seen among auto-body painters. Detailed occupational exposure assessments were conducted for electromagnetic radiation, lead, and pesticides. No associations were seen for electromagnetic radiation, but an association was suggested for meningioma and lead. No consistent evidence was found of an association between any of six chlorinated solvents and risk of glioma or meningioma although there was limited evidence of an association between carbon tetrachloride and risk of glioma. Recent genetic analyses have indicated associations between brain tumor risk and polymorphisms in cytokine, apoptosis/cell cycle control, DNA repair and oxidative stress genes. Findings for these pathways are being followed up in larger and more comprehensive studies. Cellular Telephone Use and Cancer Risks Ionizing radiation is known to increase cancer risks, but there is no consistent evidence that non-ionizing radiofrequency radiation (cell phones) or magnetic field (power lines and electrical appliances) exposures increase cancer risk. As a result of public and Congressional concern, the Radiation Epidemiology Branch (REB) launched an early case-control study and found no relationship between cell phone use and risk of glioma, meningioma or acoustic neuroma. A study of time trends in glioma incidence in the U.S. led by REB showed no rise despite dramatic increases in cell phone use. A subsequent REB assessment demonstrated that the elevated gliom